Brindisi, June 12, 2025 – A tragic episode of violence shook the community of Brindisi today, when the chief brigadier of the Carabinieri Carlo Legrottaglie was killed during an operation following a robbery in Francavilla Fontana. The carabiniere, who was about to retire in July, was involved in a chase following a robbery at a fuel station, where he lost his life due to shots fired by the robbers.
The Dynamics of the Events
The incident occurred around 7:00 in the morning, when two criminals had just committed a robbery at a fuel station in the industrial area of Francavilla Fontana. The Carabinieri, alerted by the report, intercepted the robbers' car, a dark Lancia Y, initiating a chase that led to a collision between the two vehicles. The chase ended in the countryside between Grottaglie and Martina Franca, where the robbers fled on foot.
According to the initial reconstruction, Legrottaglie pursued one of the two robbers who, after fatally shooting him, continued his escape. Despite his severe injuries, the brigadier managed to return fire, wounding one of the two criminals. Both robbers hid in an isolated farmhouse between Grottaglie and Martina Franca, where they were located thanks to the decisive intervention of the Police.
Two officers from the Falchi squad of the Taranto Police, arriving on the scene on a motorcycle, located the criminals inside the farmhouse. Upon seeing them, the robbers opened fire on them. The police officers promptly returned fire and managed to apprehend them. During the clash, one of the two robbers was seriously injured and died shortly after. The second robber was arrested and transferred to the barracks in Martina Franca.
Mourning and Condolences
The news of Carlo Legrottaglie's death sparked a reaction of deep sorrow and condolences. The Minister of Defense, Guido Crosetto, expressed his condolences, highlighting the courage and sense of duty of the brigadier, who sacrificed his life for the safety and protection of the community. "He left us keeping faith with the oath he took," Crosetto declared.
Senate President Ignazio La Russa also expressed his dismay at the loss, calling Legrottaglie a "servant of the State" who fell while performing his duty. Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani emphasized the great sacrifice of the carabiniere, who was due to retire in a few weeks.
The mayor of Ostuni, Angelo Pomes, Legrottaglie's hometown, expressed the condolences of the entire community, recalling the value and sense of responsibility that distinguished the brigadier throughout his career. Furthermore, the military union Unarma denounced the danger and risk of the daily operations of the Carabinieri, calling for a structural increase in personnel to ensure timely and safe interventions.
Ongoing Investigations
The Brindisi Prosecutor's Office has opened an investigation to ascertain the complete dynamics of the events, including the causes of the fatal injuries of the deceased robber and the circumstances of the shooting. The on-duty public prosecutor, Raffaele Casto, coordinated the investigations which also involve the State Police, who played a crucial role in locating and capturing the criminals.
The death of Brigadier Carlo Legrottaglie represents a painful loss for the Carabinieri Corps and the entire community. A man who, just days from retirement, sacrificed his life to protect citizens. His sacrifice will remain etched in the hearts of all those who had the fortune to know him and work with him.
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